(June 2009)
Pandemic flu is different from ordinary flu because it occurs when a new flu virus emerges into the human population and spreads from person-to-person worldwide – all countries will be affected. Swine flu outbreaks in over 70 countries worldwide have led to the World Health Organisation declaring it a global flu pandemic.
There is a great deal of available advice on pandemic flu and how to prepare for it. There are national plans in place to deal with a pandemic and advice has been published by the government. All households should have received an information leaflet (which is available to download below) about pandemic flu and how to prevent its spread.
Some of the most relevant advice for childminders is available here.
All about swine flu - information from Direct.gov
Important information about swine flu - government information leaflet
Pandemic flu: important information for you and your family
Planning for a human influenza pandemic – guidance for childcare and early years settings
Infection control: how to reduce the spread of pandemic flu - guidance for childminders
The following websites have up-to-date information and advice about swine flu and pandemic flu.
Department of Health
World Health Organisation
BBC News
NHS Direct
Teachernet.gov.uk emergency planning resources